League: Defending champs Hikurangi start strong

A default by Horahora marred an otherwise positive start to the Northland Rugby League premier competition at the weekend.

Defending champions Hikurangi, led by Jerome Wihongi, got off to a flying start by defeating Takahiwai 56-30 at Otaika Park, with rookies Alex Epiha and Naphtali Pumipi the standout players.

The chairwoman of the Whangarei City and District Rugby League, Juanita Hool, said it was disappointing to have a default by a new team in the premier competition, especially when Marist was ready to play.

"A default usually carries a fine but it's more to do with how well they (Horahora) can carry on and sustain the games this season," she said.

Hool said it was good to see close results in all games, except Hikurangi vs Takahiwai, but said the score did not reflect the performance of the losing team.

"We planned to play quarters but didn't need to because the conditions were good. The crowd turnout was good too."

She said the match between Horahora and Portland in Whangarei this Saturday would be a cracker.

In other results last weekend, Bay Slayers beat Moerewa 28-24, Kaikohe defeated Otaua 26-24, City pipped Wairoa 18-16, and Hokianga won over Kaitaia 30-16.

Portland had a bye.